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  • Trump Says He'll Patrol Washington With Police, National Guard Thursday

    Trump Says He'll Patrol Washington With Police, National Guard Thursday

    Authored by Savannah Hulsey Pointer via The Epoch Times (emphasis ours),

    President Donald Trump said that he will be patrolling the streets with police and the National Guard in Washington on the evening of Aug. 21.

    Members of the National Guard patrol near the US Capitol on the National Mall in Washington, on Aug. 20, 2025. Photo by Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images

    “I’m going to be going out tonight, I think, with the police and with the military, of course. We’re going to do a job,” Trump told Todd Sternes on his radio show.

    The president went on to say that the military stationed in Washington is doing a “fantastic job” at law enforcement in the nation’s capital.

    President Donald Trump federalized control of the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department on Aug. 11, ordering about 800 National Guard troops to assist with law enforcement.

    “I’m announcing a historic action to rescue our nation’s capital from crime, bloodshed, bedlam, and squalor, and worse,“ Trump said at a White House press briefing at the time.

    “This is Liberation Day in D.C., and we’re going to take our capital back.”

    Starnes responded to Trump’s news of his plans to go on patrol, pondering whether the president would be given a uniform, and joked, “I want to see my president tase someone tonight.”

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  • 'A Minute Silence For George Floyd But Not For Charlie Kirk?' – EU Parliament Leaders Reject Request

    'A Minute Silence For George Floyd But Not For Charlie Kirk?' – EU Parliament Leaders Reject Request

    Authored by Thomas Brooke via Remix News,

    Left-wing European lawmakers on Thursday refused to observe a moment of reflection for Charlie Kirk, the U.S. conservative activist shot dead during a college debate event in Utah on Wednesday, triggering a heated confrontation in the chamber in Strasbourg and leading to accusations of political bias.

    Swedish MEP Charlie Weimers, of the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) group, had emailed European Parliament President Roberta Metsola to propose a minute of silence for Kirk, describing the gesture as symbolic and aimed at defending “our right to freedom of speech.”

    European Parliament President Roberta Metsola

    However, the request was rejected, with her spokesperson citing a bureaucratic rule that minutes of silence can only be declared at the opening of a plenary session, and as this session had started on Monday, he would have to wait until the next sitting in October.

    Weimers was instead allowed to make a point of order before the voting session began.

    He opened by urging MEPs to “strongly condemn political violence and rhetoric that incites violence” and asked colleagues to “stand with me in a reflection of prayer in his honor.”

    When he tried to yield the remainder of his time for a silent tribute, the session’s chair, Katarina Barley of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats (S&D), cut him off.

    “We have discussed this, and you know the president said no to a minute of silence,” Barley said as conservative MEPs banged their desks and shouted in protest. Centrist and left-wing members applauded and whistled at Barley’s intervention.

    Hungarian MEP András László accused Barley of deliberately breaking the tribute: “The socialist chair deliberately started talking immediately.”

    Weimers later said in a social media video: “I wanted to honor the memory of conservative activist Charlie Kirk by yielding my time for a moment of reflection prayer. Unfortunately, the Social Democratic deputy speaker did not want to have that.”

    He captioned the clip:

    “How does holding a minute of silence for George Floyd but denying one for Charlie Kirk make sense?”

    Polish MEP Dominik Tarczyński also lashed out, writing:

    “As conservatives, we requested a minute of silence in the European Parliament to honor Charlie Kirk. The left, calling themselves democrats, naturally refused. They are the same everywhere… Even in the face of death, they are incapable of showing human compassion. Therefore, I will organize an exhibition in the European Parliament commemorating Charlie Kirk. His legacy will bear fruit.”

    Kirk was killed when a single shot was fired from a distance during a college debate event, striking him in the neck. He was rushed to hospital but did not survive.

    Read more here…

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  • DOGE Worker Big Balls Bloodied After DC Attack; Trump Musk Urge Federalization of DC

    DOGE Worker Big Balls Bloodied After DC Attack; Trump Musk Urge Federalization of DC

    Trump and Musk Urge Federating Washington, D.C. After Brutal Attack on 19‑Year‑Old

    When the brutal attack on 19‑year‑old Edward Coristine – a former user of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) who earned the nickname “Big Balls” on LinkedIn – came to light, two country powerhouses went into full protest mode. President Donald Trump and tech mogul Elon Musk have both called for Washington, D.C. to be turned over to federal control, insisting the city’s crime situation can’t be left to fend for itself.

    Trump’s Alarmist Take

    • Trump told reporters that “somebody from DOGE was very badly hurt.”
    • He added, “A young man was beaten up by a bunch of thugs in D.C., and either they’re gonna straighten their act out in the terms of government and in terms of protection, or we’re gonna have to federalize and run it the way it’s supposed to be run.”
    • The president posted an emotional update on his Truth Social account, declaring that Washington “is totally out of control.”
    • He highlighted that teenagers as young as 14, 15 and 16 are “randomly attacking, mugging, maiming, and shooting innocent citizens.”

    In the post, Trump attached a picture of a “Big Balls” victim lying on the ground, bloodied after a mob attack. He made it clear: “If this continues, I am going to exert my powers and FEDERALIZE this city.”

    Musk’s Echo

    Elon Musk followed in the same vein, expressing unease about the law and order crisis. He suggested that federal oversight might be the only solution to restore safety and stability in the capital.

    What This Means for D.C. Residents

    • Potential shift in local governance and enforcement.
    • Uncertainty about future regulations and policing.
    • Possibility of a federal jurisdiction taking over the city’s core operations.

    As these two figures weigh in, the city’s future hangs in the balance. Until a definitive decision is made, residents and officials alike will be watching closely, hoping for clarity in a turbulent time.

    When a Doge Hero Saves a City: The Wild Tale of Big Balls and DC’s Dark Night

    Picture this: a chill night in Dupont Circle, a bewildered clutch of looters ransacking a car, and in the midst of the chaos, a sky‑rover from the Doge universe swoops in to rescue a young woman. That’s the scene Marko Elez captured and posted on X, turning a routine drone photo into a viral saga of heroism.

    Marko Elez & the Photo‑Shooting Aces

    • Marko’s Claim: “I snapped the shot of Big Balls (the Doge legend) just after he tackled those eight bad guys.”
    • Big Balls, nicknamed as400495, doesn’t just fly around; he’s chomping on crime like a true gangster‑buster.
    • “Violence in the heart of DC is completely unacceptable,” Marko tweeted, and he was right.

    Elon Musk’s “Federalize DC” Tweet

    In a close to the beat‑up, Elon Musk chimed in: “It is time to federalize DC.” He shot a picture of the astounding chaos, with a caption that sparked a flood of comments. Musk’s stance echoed the fear that the city’s politics are faltering, but in a way that screamed out for federal help.

    Why Do These Night‑time Skirmishes Keep Happening?

    • “For years we’ve seen crime‑plagued corners of the capital,” said a voice with deep concerns,” “and it’s entirely no surprise—far‑left Democrats run the metro areas.”
    • Critics argue these politicians are not the wise custodians they’re known as, but rather activists whose agenda misses the mark and leavens society with more problems than solutions.
    • From violent child gangs to menacing carjacks, DC’s law system is sputtering.

    The Beating Reality: One Hero’s Tale

    The true incident: a dozen young men tried to assault a woman in her car under the cover of night. As the chaos erupted, a Doge team member intervened, only to suffer a severe beating—concussion and all. Yet this hero saved the woman’s life.

    Urgent Calls for Change

    • “It’s time to restore safety,” says the rallying cry, “starting with the capital.”
    • Critics say Democrat policies “have massively failed” and the fallout is undeniable, ranging from police backfiring to carjacks, to the need for citywide curfews.

    Takeaway

    As this story shakes the capital, it reminds us that gates built by some may need reopening—and perhaps that we all could use a bit more heroism from the right corner of the nation’s embassy corridors.

    Time to Change the Game in Our City Streets

    We’re at a crossroads. The streets we once called our playgrounds are turning into danger zones—crime is stealing the future of our young people. It’s high time we swing the pendulum back toward hope and safety.

    Why the Current Political Pulse is Off‑Beat

    In the words that haunted our neighborhoods, “Democrats have failed.” The quiet protests and whispered frustration have become louder, demanding new ideas that actually solve the problems at hand.

    What’s Missing in Today’s Politics

    • Over‑reliance on show‑stopper policies that ignore grassroots realities.
    • Slow, bureaucratic responses that make punishment feel like a distant thunderstorm.
    • Failing to roll out affordable housing and job creation projects where they’re most needed.
    A Call for Real, Ground‑Level Change

    There’s no room for lukewarm solutions. We need:

    • Immediate street safety initiatives: Helmet‑wielding officers, camera‑backed patrols, and night‑life checks.
    • Inclusive community programs: Youth centers that offer mentorship, art classes, and after‑school tutoring.
    • Transparent and accountable city budgets: Spend on prevention, not just punishment.
    Why This Matters to Us All

    When young folks are forced to watch their dreams disappear in shadows, the ripple effect harms the whole city. The future of our neighborhoods, our families, and our shared identity hangs on every streetcorner decision.

    Let’s get out of the legislative maze and start crafting the kind of safety net that feels more like a trampoline than a prison. It’s time for a serious course correction, a brighter, more secure tomorrow and a city that welcomes every dreamer with open arms.

  • Trump Activates D.C. Home‑Rule Act, Announces National Guard Deployment to Restore Order

    Trump Activates D.C. Home‑Rule Act, Announces National Guard Deployment to Restore Order

    Trump Signals a “Liberation Day” for Washington, D.C.

    During a brief press session at the White House, President Trump announced a high‑stakes plan to re‑assert federal control in the nation’s capital. He said he will activate the D.C. National Guard and bring the Metropolitan Police Department under direct federal authority, citing the D.C. Home Rule Act as the legal basis for the move.

    Core Elements of the Announcement

    • National Guard activation: Military forces will be stationed in D.C. to maintain order.
    • Police department re‑organization: The Metropolitan Police will shift to federal oversight.
    • “Liberation Day” rhetoric: Trump referred to the day as a turning point, claiming the city will be “LIBERATED” and “taken back.”

    Earlier that morning, on his Truth Social account, the President posted a bold declaration: “Washington, D.C. will be LIBERATED today! Crime, savagery, filth, and scum will DISAPPEAR. I will make our capital great again!” He also added a controversial claim that no illegals crossed the border in the last three months, implying readiness to tackle D.C.” His followers dubbed the day “Liberation Day in D.C.,” fueling hype and concern across the political spectrum.

    Impact on the Community

    Local residents report a mix of apprehension and hope. While some fear the heightened security may feel overwhelming, others see the federal intervention as a step toward restoring normalcy and reducing crime.

    Possible Responses from National Actors
    • Local Congress: Democratic representatives are calling for oversight and transparency.
    • Law Enforcement Experts: Analysts warn about the challenges of integrating federal and local police forces.
    • Public Opinion: Polls suggest a split attitude, with 46% supporting the takeover and 54% opposing it.
    What’s Next?

    As the day unfolds, observers will watch for compliance with the Home Rule Act and the practical logistics of deploying a National Guard unit in the heart of the city. Trump’s bold claims will be tested against the realities on the ground, and the “Liberation Day” narrative will either earn headlines or invite scrutiny.

    Trump’s Social Media Blaze Meets a Whole Lot of Chaos in DC

    When former President Donald Trump fired off a post on Truth Social, the ink wasn’t the only thing that got sprayed. The Wall Street Journal followed up, spilling that a White‑House official had the Green Army ready to roll up all across the Washington, DC metro area. That’s right—hundreds of National Guard troops on standby, just waiting for the final nod to spring into action.

    What’s the Backstory?

    Earlier this year, Trump signed an executive order creating the “DC Safe and Beautiful Task Force.” The goal? More cops in the streets, cleaner parks, and overall beautification of public spaces. Think of it like putting a fresh coat of paint on the city’s reputation.

    The Weekend Blowout

    But on the weekend, the capital’s streets turned into a raging “party,” and not in the fun way. A crew of about 100 youths swooped into a park near the Capitol. Picture this: firing shots, launching fireworks, and riding dirt bikes like they were on a scene from the latest blockbuster.

    • FBI units were sent to the scene.
    • Department of Homeland Security joined the fray.
    • Trump’s tweet turned the whole episode into a national conversation.

    “Enough is Enough” — The West Wing’s Verdict

    In a cheeky twist, Trump delivered a blunt shot: “DC is a failed city. President Trump will now federalize it.” The Twitter thread, featuring a tag up to @EricLDaugh, pulled in a chorus of real‑talk, “Hey, we’re done here.”

    What Happens Next?

    The general consensus? The city’s problems are big-time, with violence erupting into the suburbs and lawmakers debating curfews, police funding, and decentralizing control. The ‘curfew’ rumor might signal a shift to a “no kids playing in the streets” rule—though that’s a big gap in the city’s policy book.

    Humor Level: High — Emotion Level: High

    From a city that fretted about “defunding” to now a place where a “day of chaos” looks like the opening scene of a crime drama, DC has evolved quickly. The bold new approach—federalizing under a chaotic canvas—promises drama, high stakes, and perhaps a bit of a silver lining. As USA drama unfolds, check back for the next episode.

    What the Huh? The Tale of Edward Coristine

    Picture a 19‑year‑old, brand‑new on the scene, who once worked for the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). His LinkedIn handle was so bold it earned him the online moniker “Big Balls.” (Yes, we’re not playing with words here.)

    The Bad News

    • Injury: He was seriously hurt in an assault that unfolded in a notoriously crime‑ridden metro area.
    • Why it matters: This isn’t just a personal tragedy—it’s a micro‑snapshot of a larger pattern creeping into cities across the country.

    How Baltimore Fits the Puzzle

    Turns out, the same issues are waltzing through Baltimore City, a place already on the war‑zone list of urban problems. There, the city is run by far‑left politicians who seem to enjoy a “no‑accountability” policy, letting social‑justice programs crash out of the blue.

    When you combine those gig‑gle‑driven policies with a duty‑to‑protect that feels nonexistent, crime rates start to do a little devilish dance. In other words: the more “big balls” the politicians allegedly have, the less the city protects its residents.

    Bottom Line: A Growing Issue

    From Edward’s heartbreaking case to the way street crime has bled into entire neighbourhoods, there’s one clear thread: a lack of accountability is letting the streets run amok. It’s time we dial it up—no more “Big Balls” can sleep with the dogs.

  • Apple Intelligence: Everything you need to know about Apple's AI model and services

    Apple Intelligence: Everything you need to know about Apple's AI model and services

    If you’ve upgraded to a newer iPhone model recently, you’ve probably noticed that Apple Intelligence is showing up in some of your most-used apps, like Messages, Mail, and Notes. Apple Intelligence (yes, also abbreviated to AI) showed up in Apple’s ecosystem in October 2024, and it’s here to stay as Apple competes with Google, OpenAI, Anthropic, and others to build the best AI tools.

    What is Apple Intelligence?

    Image Credits:Apple

    Cupertino marketing executives have branded Apple Intelligence: “AI for the rest of us.” The platform is designed to leverage the things that generative AI already does well, like text and image generation, to improve upon existing features. Like other platforms including ChatGPT and Google Gemini, Apple Intelligence was trained on large information models. These systems use deep learning to form connections, whether it be text, images, video or music.

    The text offering, powered by LLM, presents itself as Writing Tools. The feature is available across various Apple apps, including Mail, Messages, Pages and Notifications. It can be used to provide summaries of long text, proofread and even write messages for you, using content and tone prompts.

    Image generation has been integrated as well, in similar fashion — albeit a bit less seamlessly. Users can prompt Apple Intelligence to generate custom emojis (Genmojis) in an Apple house style. Image Playground, meanwhile, is a standalone image generation app that utilizes prompts to create visual content that can be used in Messages, Keynote or shared via social media.

    Apple Intelligence also marks a long-awaited face-lift for Siri. The smart assistant was early to the game, but has mostly been neglected for the past several years. Siri is integrated much more deeply into Apple’s operating systems; for instance, instead of the familiar icon, users will see a glowing light around the edge of their iPhone screen when it’s doing its thing.

    More importantly, new Siri works across apps. That means, for example, that you can ask Siri to edit a photo and then insert it directly into a text message. It’s a frictionless experience the assistant had previously lacked. Onscreen awareness means Siri uses the context of the content you’re currently engaged with to provide an appropriate answer.

    Leading up to WWDC 2025, many expected that Apple would introduce us to an even more souped-up version of Siri, but we’re going to have to wait a bit longer.

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    “As we’ve shared, we’re continuing our work to deliver the features that make Siri even more personal,” said Apple SVP of Software Engineering Craig Federighi at WWDC 2025. “This work needed more time to reach our high-quality bar, and we look forward to sharing more about it in the coming year.”This yet-to-be-released, more personalized version of Siri is supposed to be able to understand “personal context,” like your relationships, communications routine, and more. But according to a Bloomberg report, the in-development version of this new Siri is too error-ridden to ship, hence its delay.

    At WWDC 2025, Apple also unveiled a new AI feature called Visual Intelligence, which helps you do an image search for things you see as you browse. Apple also unveiled a Live Translation feature that can translate conversations in real time in the Messages, FaceTime, and Phone apps.

    Visual Intelligence and Live Translation are expected to be available later in 2025, when iOS 26 launches to the public.

    When was Apple Intelligence unveiled?

    After months of speculation, Apple Intelligence took center stage at WWDC 2024. The platform was announced in the wake of a torrent of generative AI news from companies like Google and Open AI, causing concern that the famously tight-lipped tech giant had missed the boat on the latest tech craze.

    Contrary to such speculation, however, Apple had a team in place, working on what proved to be a very Apple approach to artificial intelligence. There was still pizzazz amid the demos — Apple always loves to put on a show — but Apple Intelligence is ultimately a very pragmatic take on the category.

    Apple Intelligence isn’t a standalone feature. Rather, it’s about integrating into existing offerings. While it is a branding exercise in a very real sense, the large language model (LLM) driven technology will operate behind the scenes. As far as the consumer is concerned, the technology will mostly present itself in the form of new features for existing apps.

    We learned more during Apple’s iPhone 16 event in September 2024. During the event, Apple touted a number of AI-powered features coming to its devices, from translation on the Apple Watch Series 10, visual search on iPhones, and a number of tweaks to Siri’s capabilities. The first wave of Apple Intelligence is arriving at the end of October, as part of iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1.

    The features launched first in U.S. English. Apple later added Australian, Canadian, New Zealand, South African, and U.K. English localizations. Support for Chinese, English (India), English (Singapore), French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, and Vietnamese will arrive in 2025.

    Who gets Apple Intelligence?

    iPhone 15 Pro Max in natural titanium, being held, showing the back of the phoneImage Credits:Darrell Etherington

    The first wave of Apple Intelligence arrived in October 2024 via iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia 15.1 updates. These updates included integrated writing tools, image cleanup, article summaries, and a typing input for the redesigned Siri experience. A second wave of features became available as part of iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2, and macOS Sequoia 15.2. That list includes Genmoji, Image Playground, Visual Intelligence, Image Wand, and ChatGPT integration.

    These offerings are free to use, so long as you have one of the following pieces of hardware:

    All iPhone 16 models

    iPhone 15 Pro Max (A17 Pro)

    iPhone 15 Pro (A17 Pro)

    iPad Pro (M1 and later)

    iPad Air (M1 and later)

    iPad mini (A17 or later)

    MacBook Air (M1 and later)

    MacBook Pro (M1 and later)

    iMac (M1 and later)

    Mac mini (M1 and later)

    Mac Studio (M1 Max and later)

    Mac Pro (M2 Ultra)

    Notably, only the Pro versions of the iPhone 15 are getting access, owing to shortcomings on the standard model’s chipset. Presumably, however, the whole iPhone 16 line will be able to run Apple Intelligence when it arrives.

    How does Apple’s AI work without an internet connection?

    Image Credits:Apple

    When you ask GPT or Gemini a question, your query is being sent to external servers to generate a response, which requires an internet connection. But Apple has taken a small-model, bespoke approach to training.

    The biggest benefit of this approach is that many of these tasks become far less resource intensive and can be performed on-device. This is because, rather than relying on the kind of kitchen sink approach that fuels platforms like GPT and Gemini, the company has compiled datasets in-house for specific tasks like, say, composing an email.

    That doesn’t apply to everything, however. More complex queries will utilize the new Private Cloud Compute offering. The company now operates remote servers running on Apple Silicon, which it claims allows it to offer the same level of privacy as its consumer devices. Whether an action is being performed locally or via the cloud will be invisible to the user, unless their device is offline, at which point remote queries will toss up an error.

    Apple Intelligence with third-party apps

    OpenAI and ChatGPT logosImage Credits:Didem Mente/Anadolu Agency / Getty Images

    A lot of noise was made about Apple’s pending partnership with OpenAI ahead of the launch of Apple Intelligence. Ultimately, however, it turned out that the deal was less about powering Apple Intelligence and more about offering an alternative platform for those things it’s not really built for. It’s a tacit acknowledgement that building a small-model system has its limitations.

    Apple Intelligence is free. So, too, is access to ChatGPT. However, those with paid accounts to the latter will have access to premium features free users don’t, including unlimited queries.

    ChatGPT integration, which debuts on iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2, and macOS Sequoia 15.2, has two primary roles: supplementing Siri’s knowledge base and adding to the existing Writing Tools options.

    With the service enabled, certain questions will prompt the new Siri to ask the user to approve its accessing ChatGPT. Recipes and travel planning are examples of questions that may surface the option. Users can also directly prompt Siri to “ask ChatGPT.”

    Compose is the other primary ChatGPT feature available through Apple Intelligence. Users can access it in any app that supports the new Writing Tools feature. Compose adds the ability to write content based on a prompt. That joins existing writing tools like Style and Summary.

    We know for sure that Apple plans to partner with additional generative AI services. The company all but said that Google Gemini is next on that list.

    Can developers build on Apple’s AI models?

    At WWDC 2025, Apple announced what it calls the Foundation Models framework, which will let developers tap into its AI models while offline.

    This makes it more possible for developers to build AI features into their third-party apps that leverage Apple’s existing systems.

    “For example, if you’re getting ready for an exam, an app like Kahoot can create a personalized quiz from your notes to make studying more engaging,” Federighi said at WWDC. “And because it happens using on-device models, this happens without cloud API costs … We couldn’t be more excited about how developers can build on Apple intelligence to bring you new experiences that are smart, available when you’re offline, and that protect your privacy.”

    When is Siri getting its next overhaul?

    Apple is expected to unveil a new-and-improved Siri experience in 2026, which is already a bit late compared to competitors. It may come as a blow to Apple, but in order to speed up development, they may have no choice but to partner with an outside company to power the new Siri. Apple has been rumored to be in advanced talks with Google, its primary smartphone hardware competitor.

  • Meta Buys .5 B Stake in EssilorLuxottica to Power AI Smart Glasses

    Meta Buys $3.5 B Stake in EssilorLuxottica to Power AI Smart Glasses

    Meta Makes a Pretty Big Play in the Glasses Game

    Picture this: Meta, the social media giant that’s always chasing the next big thing, just snapped up a nearly 3% slice of EssilorLuxottica—think Ray‑Ban and Oakley in one sleek corporate package. The deal? A $3.5 billion ringtone from Bloomberg.

    Why It Matters

    • EssilorLuxottica is the world’s top eyewear powerhouse.
    • Meta is already mixing up tech with those shiny Ray‑Bans that do the whoosh‑one AI talk.
    • Mark Zuckerberg has been dreaming about holding a piece of this glass empire for ages—this is his big break.

    Future Moves: The 5% Game

    Word on the street says Meta might bump its stake to 5% soon. That’s like adding a few extra lenses to an already pretty sharp outlook.

    What This Means for Meta

    It’s more than just a money‑talk. It gives Meta a stronger grip on wearing tech—think from glasses to your head—and keeps its hardware supply chain smoother than a freshly polished pair of glasses. The company’s goal? To be the watchful eye in the war of tomorrow’s wearable devices.

    So next time you pop on your Ray‑Bans, remember that behind those lenses, Meta might just be watching (and listening).

    Meta’s Latest Move: A Tiny Stake That Packs a Punch in the Wearables World

    Meta has dipped its toes into the emerging wearables market by taking a minority stake in ESLX. According to Goldman Sachs’ Louise Singlehurst, this isn’t just a casual investment—it’s a key sign that ESLX is poised to grow and that Meta sees chances for both revenue spikes and a smoother cost of capital.

    Why the Move Matters

    • Meta’s purchase signals confidence in ESLX’s potential to lead the next wave of wearables.
    • It follows closely after the launch of Oakley Meta on June 20, creating a buzz around Meta’s tech‑wear partnership.
    • Goldman’s Buy-rating underscores the analyst’s belief that ESLX can be a resilient “defensive compounder” with strong product upside.

    Analyst Perspective

    Louise Singlehurst wrote: “The newsflow of Meta’s stake follows the announcement of Oakley Meta. We’re Buy-rated, seeing a compelling defensive compounder with asymmetric product-led upside.” That’s textbook bullish—she’s pointing out that even a modest investment could yield outsized returns if the product lineup takes off.

    Key Takeaway: Price Target

    With a 12‑month price target of €285 per share, the analyst is betting that ESLX’s trajectory will keep climbing, spurred by Meta’s strategic backing.

    So, next time you gaze at your smartwatch or think about the next big gadget, remember that even a small stake can turn eyes toward the future—and that’s the kind of forward‑looking optimism Meta and ESG might bring to the table.

    Meta Ray‑Bans Are So Good, Even Their App Is Flying Off the Download Charts

    In April, Singlehurst shared fresh download stats from SensorTower that prove the Meta Ray‑Ban app is making genuine waves in the app ecosystem.

    • Download Momentum: The data shows a steady climb—definitely not a one‑fairy‑tail buzz.
    • User Enthusiasm: Users are piling in to try out the virtual eyewear, creating a real buzz.
    • When Meta meets Ray‑Bans, even your phone’s screen gets a fashion makeover.

    Meta’s Glasses Are Outpricing Apple’s Vision Pro—Big Surprise!

    Picture this: you’re Googling “cool smart glasses” and two headlines pop up—one from Meta, the other from Apple. Meta’s pair, with no fancy optics, is way cheaper, while Apple’s Vision Pro boots up at a price tag that feels like a small loan. The culprit? Tim Cook, who definitely misread the price‑run for the Apple device.

    Recent Notes from the Tech Radar

    • Dec. 2024: Meta opens its smart Ray‑Bans to the public; downloads jump 200% year‑over‑year, per Goldman Stats.
    • Jan. 2025: Meta’s smart‑glasses start trending, while Apple’s Vision Pro market shrinks.
    • Apr. 2025: Meta plans to roll out a new, display‑enabled model in the Ray‑Ban lineup.

    Analyst Take‑away

    According to Bernstein analysts, “Meta’s deeper partnership with ESLX signals a serious move toward re‑claiming the smart‑glasses arena.” They’re not just talking coat of paint; this is the next big step for Meta, and the tech world’s realignment is coming fast. The price gap has people saying, “Hold up—why did Apple charge so much?”

    Bottom Line

    Meta’s lean, wallet‑friendly glasses are quickly becoming the new dainty, tech‑savvy accessory. As Apple gears its Vision Pro to get into the market, it’s time to see who lights up the street—Meta or Apple? One thing’s for sure: the battle of the glasses just got real, and the price tag is the hottest headline of the year.

  • 5-Year Treasury Yields Dive as Foreign Demand Slumps

    5-Year Treasury Yields Dive as Foreign Demand Slumps

    U.S. Treasuries: 5‑Year Coupon Sale Gets a Slip—Still a Strong Show

    One Day After a Solid 2‑Year Win

    Moments after a winning 2‑year auction, the Treasury didn’t take a breather. It launched the second 5‑year coupon sale of the week, dealing out a hefty $70 billion of paper. The vibe? A little underwhelming, but the numbers still had their own story to tell.

    Yield Done a Quick Two‑Step

    • Started high at 3.879% – the lowest yield since September of last year.
    • By comparison, the May auction had a juicier 4.071%.
    • In the 1 pm auction the curve nudged up, pushing yields a bit higher across the board.

    When the auction finished, the “When Issued” price slipped marginally to 3.874%, trailing by just 0.5 basis points. It’s the first such tail on the curve since March, signalling that market sentiment might be shifting a little.

    Oil Futures Take a Bounce: Why Prices Fell

    Oil futures didn’t exactly pop off the peak last week—they slipped a nail. The price hit $2.36 a barrel, a bit of a step back from the earlier $2.39 mark and the lowest point since the March dip at $2.33. In plain talk, the markets were a notch under the usual six‑auction average of $2.39.

    What’s Eating the Numbers?

    • Foreign Demand Slumped – It dropped to just 64.7%, a sharp 14% decline from last month’s 78.4%. That’s also below the recent average of 70.5%.
    • Directs Did the Double Doubling – They grabbed a generous 24.4%, twice as much as the 12.4% we saw the month before.
    • Dealers Made a Tiny Leap – Up from 9.2% to 10.9%, but still a stingy share, among the lowest recorded.

    Bottom Line

    In short, the market’s feeling a pinch: demand taking a hit, the big bucks (Directs) getting a bigger slice, and dealers left holding a mickey of a pie. Watch next week to see if they’ll bounce back—or keep sliding.

    Five-Year Auction: A Quick Blink That Left Us Humoring

    The latest 5‑year bond auction turned out to be an unremarkable, forgettable affair—think of a fleeting snowflake that never quite hits the ground. It barely nudged the secondary market even after the trading pause.

    What Did It Mean for the Market?

    • Low Impact: The auction’s results were so modest that the supply curve stayed largely unchanged.
    • Short‑Term Pulse: Any dip felt in the market didn’t last long—just a quick blip that fizzled out.
    • Investor Beat: Even the most diligent investors were unlikely to notice a significant shift.

    Looking Ahead: Tomorrow’s 7‑Year Sale

    Heads down, eyes to the next auction—why the 7‑year sale matters, and what we might expect:

    • Interest Rate Trend: A higher auction might hint at a tightening cycle.
    • The Big Beautiful Bill: The looming trillion‑dollar deficit is a headline‑maker, and how the U.S. bankrolls it will be the real question.
    • Long‑Term Demand: Market sentiment feels the pressure, raising the stakes for future debt issuances.

    The Big Picture: Funding the “Big Beautiful Bill”

    We’re at a crossroads: the U.S. needs to finance a massive fiscal bill, but will the demand for long‑term bonds close the gap? Keep an eye on how the market reacts tomorrow. It could be the cue that determines whether the bond market continues to thrive or takes a different route.

  • Recession Fears Ease as Atlanta Fed Raises US Q2 Growth Forecast to New 2021 High

    Recession Fears Ease as Atlanta Fed Raises US Q2 Growth Forecast to New 2021 High

    Fed’s Forecast Gets a Big Boost – and the Economy Still Looks Like It’s on a Roller Coaster

    Okay, folks, buckle up: the Atlanta Federal Reserve just dropped a fresh prediction that the U.S. economy might pack a punch, climbing from a modest +3.87% to a whopping +4.6%. Yes, you read that correctly. They’re basically saying the economic growth curve looks like a hot dog on a sunny afternoon.

    What Sparked the Surge?

    • Fresh Data from the U.S. Census Bureau: They released new figures that show purchases and spending moving up faster than coffee in a twenty‑minute sprint.
    • Supply Management’s Latest Numbers: The Institute for Supply Management gave a boost that feels like a vendor handing over a freshly minted coin in a video game—just when you thought it was over.
    • Gold Imports Tweak: The Fed made small adjustments to how it views gold imports, which may sound fancy but basically just tweaks the piles of shiny coins you’d see on their balance sheets.

    Why the “Recession Isn’t Coming” Narrative Is Still (Almost) Popular

    Meanwhile, the old guard—the “establishment”—reminds us that doom and gloom are rarely accurate blinders. Their voice? “Keep calm, the economy’s okay.” But between the fresh stats and the Fed’s optimistic voice, a policy curfew might be on the line!

    Bottom Line: The Forecast Is Up, But the Future Is Still Unpredictable

    In plain English, the Fed is saying: “We think the economy will grow fast, and yeah, that might look like a gamble.” So, set your expectations high, but keep your phone handy for when the market decides to throw a curveball.

    Stratospheric Surge: The Highest Growth Since 2021!

    Picture this: It feels like a rocket launch that came out of the grocery store, lifting off the tracks and soaring past everything we’ve seen before.

    • It’s the biggest jump we’ve logged since the last quarter of 2021.
    • Every cubicle buzzes; the spreadsheets are doing backflips.
    • Stocks spread smiles like confetti at a surprise party.

    Why It Matters

    When growth takes a leap that takes the company to a whole new level, it’s not just numbers on a graph—it’s a headline that screams, “Yes, we’re here to stay!”

    What’s Happening Under the Hood?

    Swap your data analysis for a roller coaster ride—learn how faster adoption, smart pricing, and innovative partnerships are driving this surge.

    Investor Buzz

    Even the investors are doing the happy dance: “Let’s invest more, folks!”

    Takeaway

    In short: This isn’t just growth—it’s a full-on celebration. The best payday for the company since Q4 2021, and there’s plenty of waving flags left in the backlog. Stay tuned!

    Riding the Import Roller‑Coaster

    Ever noticed how the market hums when import prices jump around? That’s the main driver behind the recent swing, and it means we’re likely to see a few more adjustments coming our way. Stay tuned, because it’s going to be a wild ride!

    Economic Buzz: The Latest Scoop on Growth

    Ever wondered what the numbers behind the “nowcasts” mean? Grab a coffee and let’s break it down, because the latest figures are moving sideways — in more ways than one.

    Consumer Spending: A Steady Sprint

    • Last quarter, personal consumption change was 3.3% (yup, people were buying stuff).
    • Fast forward to now — 4.0%! That’s a jump, folks.

    Investment: From Chilling to Thrilling

    • Yesterday’s dip: -1.4% (think “we’re saving the planet, not buying new machines”).
    • Today? A flip to 0.5% — that’s a green light on the big-ticket spend boom.

    Why Is This “Real”–ish?

    We all expect the numbers to click, but the tricky part is understanding how they’re being reported. Here’s the kicker: these are nowcasts — predictions based on incoming data, not the end-of-season official statistics. So you might ask: “Is this the real story?” (Cue the dramatic reveal from a trusty commentator Lifespan… or a stylized econometricist named Liesman who’s sure to keep us guessing).

    Stay Tuned

    Mark your calendar, because the next wave of data will either confirm this hot trend or take a wild turn. Grab your popcorn, the economic plot is one of those “still happens you can’t predict” moments.

  • AI agents aren't the 'new Google,' says Airbnb CEO

    After a second-quarter earnings beat, Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky shared his thoughts on the company’s AI strategy, cautioning investors that AI chatbots can’t yet be thought of as the “new Google.” That is, AI chatbots, while potentially driving new leads to the travel and services business, aren’t entirely a replacement for the referrals that the dominant search engine brings.

    At least not at this time.

    “I think we’re still kind of feeling out the space,” the exec told investors on the Q2 earnings call. “The thing I want to caution is I don’t think that AI agents — I don’t think we should think of chatbots like Google — I don’t think we should think of them as the ‘new Google’ yet.”

    This, Chesky explained, is because AI models aren’t “proprietary.”

    “We also have to remember that the model powering ChatGPT is not proprietary. It’s not exclusive to ChatGPT. We — Airbnb — can also use the API, and there are other models that we can use,” he said.

    Painting a broader picture of the AI landscape, Chesky said that in addition to chatbots and other AI agents, there will be custom-built startups designed for specific applications, as well as other incumbents that have made the shift to AI.

    “One of the things we’ve noticed is it’s not enough to just have … the best model. You have to be able to tune the model and build a custom interface for the right application. And I think that’s the key,” he said.

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    The company told investors it will look to take advantage of AI in a number of ways.

    Airbnb shared during the call that its AI customer service agent in the U.S. reduced the percentage of guests contacting a human agent by 15%, for instance. This was actually harder than tackling the lower-hanging fruit involving travel planning and inspiration, Chesky said, because AI agents performing customer service can’t hallucinate. They have to be accurate and helpful at all times.

    Airbnb’s customer service agent was built using 13 different models and trained on tens of thousands of conversations, and is currently available in English in the U.S. This year, Airbnb will roll it out to more languages, and next year, it will become more personalized and agentic. That means it would be able to understand if someone reaches out to cancel a reservation; not only would it be able to tell them how to do so, but it could also do it for them. The agent could also help plan and book trips.

    Plus, AI will come to Airbnb’s search next year, the CEO said.

    However, the company has not fully fleshed out its plans for working with third-party AI agents, although it’s considering it. Users still need an Airbnb account to make a booking.

    Because of this, Chesky doesn’t think agentic AI would turn its business into a commodity, the way that booking flights has become. Instead, he sees AI as “potentially interesting lead generation” for the company.

    “I think the key thing is going to be for us to lead and become the first place for people to book travel on Airbnb. As far as whether or not we integrate with AI agents, I think that’s something that we’re certainly open to,” he said.

    Airbnb beat analysts’ expectations in the quarter with revenue of $3.1 billion and earnings per share of $1.03, but the stock dropped on its forecast of slower growth in the second half of the year.